Theresa Manole

Theresa Manole (née Gioia), 93, of Hillsdale, New Jersey, peacefully passed away on July 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, generosity, laughter, and unwavering love.

Theresa was the beloved wife and best friend of the late Leon Manole, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, partnership, and service to others. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, and kindness.

She was the cherished mother of Frank; Leon and his wife, Susan; Dr. Michael and his wife, Deirdre; and Joann Manole-Celentano and her husband, Michael. Theresa was a proud and loving grandmother to Dr. Frank and his wife, Gisele; Steven and his wife, Meaghan; Cheryl; Denise; and Sean. She was also the adored great-grandmother of Charles, Elise, Gabriel, Zachary, Gemma, Oliver, and Simon, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, the majority of her employment was in the fashion industry, in design, production, and retail. When her children were small she held part time jobs as a crossing guard, telemarketer, pieceworker, and even delivering phone books.

Above all else, Theresa's greatest calling was her family. She was a devoted mother who was always present for her children, proudly volunteering as a class mom, chaperoning school field trips, and creating a home filled with love, encouragement, and laughter. She never missed an opportunity to support those she loved.

Together with Leon, Theresa gave generously of her time to their community, volunteering with Meals on Wheels and serving as Pre-Cana couple mentors, helping to guide engaged couples as they prepared for marriage. Their shared faith and commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on many lives.

Theresa embraced life with enthusiasm. She was a wonderful dancer whose joy was contagious whenever music played. An avid traveler, she treasured exploring new places and creating lasting memories with family and friends. Whether on the dance floor, on an adventure, or gathered around the family table, Terry—as she was affectionately known—made every moment brighter with her warmth, humor, and loving spirit.

Though her family mourns her passing, they celebrate a life beautifully lived. Theresa's compassion, resilience, generosity, and deep love for her family will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, New Jersey, on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 4p.m. to 8 p.m.

A Mass celebrating Theresa's life and faith will be held at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Hillsdale, New Jersey, on Friday, July 31st, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., followed by interment at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Theresa's memory to the Grace Center for Maternal and Women's Health https://gracematernalhealth.org/donate/